The Nasarawa State Police Command has launched a manhunt for suspects involved in a deadly communal clash in the Udege Development Area of Nasarawa Local Government Area, an incident that left at least 11 people dead and several homes destroyed.
The violence, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, April 3, has heightened concerns over communal tensions in the area, prompting swift intervention by security agencies to prevent further escalation.
State Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, visited the affected communities of Akyawa and Udege Kasa shortly after the incident, where he sympathised with victims, assessed the level of destruction, and reassured residents of the police command’s commitment to restoring peace and ensuring justice.
According to police authorities, the clash was allegedly carried out by suspected hoodlums in what is believed to be a reprisal attack following the reported killing of two individuals prior to the violence. While investigations are ongoing, officials say preliminary findings suggest that the attack may have been triggered by longstanding communal tensions compounded by recent incidents.
Eyewitness accounts and local reports indicated that the attackers stormed Akyawa community during the early hours, setting houses ablaze and causing widespread panic among residents. Approximately 50 houses were reportedly razed in Akyawa, leaving many families displaced and without shelter. In neighbouring Udege Kasa, two additional houses were also destroyed during the unrest.
Residents described scenes of chaos as families fled their homes to escape the violence, with many seeking refuge in nearby communities. The destruction of homes and property has worsened humanitarian concerns in the area, as affected families struggle to cope with sudden displacement and loss of livelihoods.
Describing the incident as tragic and unfortunate, CP Mohammed extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and assured them that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident that resulted in the loss of innocent lives and destruction of property. The Command is committed to ensuring that those behind this act are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted,” the police commissioner said during his visit.
In response to the attack, the commissioner ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams and specialised investigative units to track down those responsible. He also directed an increased security presence across the affected communities to prevent retaliatory violence and restore confidence among residents.
Security reinforcements now include joint operations involving the Nigerian Police Force, the military, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as authorities work to stabilise the situation and maintain law and order.
During a stakeholders’ meeting held with community leaders, youth representatives, and local authorities, CP Mohammed urged residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could further inflame tensions. He appealed for cooperation with security agencies, stressing that credible information from members of the public would play a crucial role in ongoing investigations.
He emphasized that community collaboration is essential in identifying perpetrators and preventing future incidents, urging residents to report suspicious activities promptly.
Police authorities later confirmed that calm has been restored to the affected communities following the deployment of security personnel. According to the command, proactive measures have been implemented to forestall a recurrence of violence, including intensified patrols and intelligence gathering.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the challenges of communal conflicts in parts of Nasarawa State, where disputes—often linked to local grievances, reprisals, or misunderstandings—have occasionally escalated into violent confrontations.
Local leaders have called for dialogue and reconciliation efforts to address underlying issues and promote lasting peace among communities in the region. Observers note that sustained engagement between traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and government authorities will be necessary to prevent further outbreaks of violence.
As investigations continue, authorities have reiterated their determination to ensure accountability and restore long-term stability in the Udege Development Area. Residents have been encouraged to go about their lawful activities while remaining vigilant and supportive of ongoing security efforts.
The Nasarawa State Police Command assured the public that updates would be provided as investigations progress and suspects linked to the attack are apprehended.
